Stabilizer pad for vehicles

ABSTRACT

A stabilizer for a heavy equipment machine includes a pair of resilient pad assemblies each having opposed surfaces either of which can be positioned as a ground engaging surface, and a support pin that extends in opposed directions from a stabilizer arm of the machine. Each of the resilient pad assemblies has a respective passage for receiving the support pin for enabling rotational support of the resilient pad assemblies from the support pin. The support of the resilient pad assemblies enables the positioning of either of the opposed surfaces as the ground engaging surface.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and is a continuation-in-partof U.S. application Ser. No. 09/996,013 filed Nov. 28, 2001; U.S.application Ser. No. 09/920,148 filed Aug. 1, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No.6,422,603, which, in turn is a continuation-in-part of U.S. applicationSer. No. 09/807,712 filed Apr. 17, 2001, which, in turn is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/183,473 filed Oct.30, 1998. This application also claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §120or 35 U.S.C. §365(c) of PCT International application PCT/US99/25381,designating the United States of America, and filed Oct. 28, 1999. PCTapplication PCT/US99/25381, of which U.S. application Ser. No.09/807,712 is a national stage filing under 35 U.S.C. §371, waspublished under PCT Article 21(2) in English. PCT/US99/25381 claimspriority to and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.09/183,473, filed Oct. 30, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,270,119.

[0002] All of the foregoing applications along with U.S. Pat. No.6,270,119, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,422,603 are now hereby incorporated byreference herein in their entity.

1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates generally to stabilizer pads forvehicles, and more particularly to pivotally mounted stabilizer pads. Inthe majority of the constructions disclosed herein the stabilizer padsare reversible having a generally flanged first surface for engagementwith a soft irregular ground surface such as gravel, and having aresilient second surface for engagement with a smooth hard groundsurface such as concrete or asphalt.

2. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0004]FIG. 1 is a fragmentary view of a typical loader/backhoe 10 havinga shovel mechanism 12, stabilizer arms 14 and 16, and associatedstabilizer pads 18 and 20, respectfully. Hydraulic pistons 15 are usedto operate each of the stabilizer arms 14 and 16 independently. In FIG.1, the stabilizer arms are in an operational, extended position with thestabilizer pads 18 and 20 in engagement with the ground surface toprevent movement of the backhoe during operation of the shovel mechanism12. When the backhoe 10 is to be moved, the pistons associated with eachcylinder are withdrawn so that the stabilizer arms 14 and 16 pivot andraise the stabilizer pads above ground level.

[0005] The stabilizer pad 18 of FIG. 1 is shown in greater detail inFIGS. 2 and 3. Stabilizer pad 20 is substantially identical tostabilizer pad 18. The stabilizer pad 18 and similar stabilizer pads arefurther described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,889,362, 5,054,812, 5,466,004,5,547,220 and 5,667,245, each of which is issued to the inventor of thepresent application and incorporated herein by reference. The stabilizerpad 18 includes a flat plate 22 having flanges 24 and 26, both extendingfrom one surface of plate 22. The stabilizer pad 18 is also providedwith supporting webs or ribs 25, one associated with each flange. Theribs 25 provide additional support for the flanges 24 and 26. The plate22 is notched at 30 between flanges 24 and 26 as illustrated in FIG. 1.The plate is notched to accommodate the arm 14 and to enable reversiblerotation of the stabilizer pad.

[0006] The stabilizer arm 14 includes a journal end for accommodatingpin 34. Pin 34 also fits within holes of flanges 24 and 26. The pin isused to secure the stabilizer pad to the arm using, for example, acotter pin as illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0007] On the side of the flat plate 22 opposite that containing theflanges 24 and 26 are disposed three laminated rubber pads 40. Each ofthe rubber pads 40 includes laminated rubber sections supported betweenangle irons 44 and 48. The angle irons 44 and 48 have a base leg and anupright leg. Each of the upright legs has holes therein for receivingelongated securing pins 50 for containing the laminated rubber sectionsbetween the angle irons. The laminated pads 40 are secured to the plate22 using bolts 53 and nuts 55.

[0008] The stabilizer pads 18 and 20 are rotatable about pin 34 when thestabilizer arms are in the raised position to place either the rubberpads 40 downward for engagement with the ground or to place the flanges24 and 26 downward for engagement with the ground.

[0009] In a typical operation, the rubber pad side of the stabilizer pad18 is positioned to engage the ground, as shown in FIG. 1, when theground surface is a relatively flat hard surface such as concrete orpavement. The flange side of the stabilizer pad 18, as shown in FIG. 2,is positioned to engage the ground when the ground surface is anunfinished ground surface, such as gravel or dirt. The flanges aredesigned to dig into the unfinished ground surface to anchor andstabilize the backhoe.

[0010] Although the prior art, reversible stabilizer pads describedabove provide reliable operation, it is desirable to provide asimplified stabilizer pad with improved operational performance over thestabilizer pads described above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In accordance with the present invention there is provided astabilizer for a heavy equipment machine that comprises a pair ofresilient pad assemblies each having opposed surfaces either of whichcan be positioned as a ground engaging surface; and a support pin thatextends in opposed directions from a stabilizer arm of the machine. Eachof the resilient pad assemblies has a respective passage for receivingthe support pin for enabling rotational support of the resilient padassemblies from the support pin. The support of the resilient padassemblies enable the positioning of either of the opposed surfaces asthe ground engaging surface.

[0012] The pad assemblies are each constructed of a plurality ofseparate pad layers. Each pad assembly may comprise a plurality ofresilient pad layers and at least one interconnecting member forretaining the layers in a secured pack. The interconnecting member maycomprise a pair of side plates and at least two interconnection securingmembers that are adapted to extend through the pad layers for holdingthe pad layers together. A sleeve may be in the pad passage for engagingwith the support pin.

[0013] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention thereis provided a stabilizer pad assembly for use with a stabilizer arm, thestabilizer pad assembly comprising; a pair of laterally spaced apartplate members, the pair of plate members being pivotally attached to astabilizer arm by a pin extending laterally between facing surfaces ofrespective plate members; and at least one resilient pad formed with atleast one passage extending transversely therethrough between oppositesides of the resilient pad, and having opposite work surfaces. The platemembers have, adjacent one edge thereof, at least one receiving hole;and there is also provided a retainer removeably engageable with theplate member receiving hole and the pad passage, removable to permitsaid resilient pad to be moved between the opposite working surfaces andto be re-engagable so as to permit selective positioning of either ofthe opposite working surfaces for use as a surface for groundengagement.

[0014] In accordance with still another aspect of the present inventionthere is provided a latch device for use with a stabilizer pad attachedto a stabilizer arm of a vehicle and for preventing self-flipping of thestabilizer pad relative to the stabilizer arm. The latch devicecomprises, a latch constructed and arranged to have a pivot that enableslimited rotation between engaged and disengaged positions thereof, and asupport for the latch from either the stabilizer arm or the stabilizerpad. The stabilizer pad has one and other positions relating to opposedwork surfaces. The latch is interengaged with one of the pad and arm toinhibits rotation of the stabilizer pad when the stabilizer pad is inthe one position so as to inhibit self-flipping thereof The latch ismanually operable to disengage the latch when moving the stabilizer padto its other position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0015] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference ismade to the drawings which are incorporated herein by reference and inwhich:

[0016]FIG. 1 is a fragmentary view of a typical loader/backhoe having astabilizer arm with stabilizer pads of the prior art secured thereto;

[0017]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the stabilizer pad and arm of FIG.1 in a gravel or dirt engaging position;

[0018]FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the stabilizer pad and armconstruction in the position of FIG. 2;

[0019]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a stabilizerpad of the present invention in a position for engaging a smoothsurface;

[0020]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 4 with thestabilizer pad in a position for engaging a gravel or dirt groundsurface;

[0021]FIG. 6 is a side view of the stabilizer pad of FIG. 4 with thestabilizer pad in the position for engaging a smooth surface;

[0022]FIG. 7 is a side view of the stabilizer pad of FIG. 4 with thestabilizer pad in the position for engaging a gravel or dirt groundsurface;

[0023]FIG. 8 is a top view of the stabilizer pad of FIG. 4 with thestabilizer pad in the position for engaging a smooth surface;

[0024]FIG. 9 is a front view of the stabilizer pad of FIG. 4 with thestabilizer pad in the position for engaging a smooth surface;

[0025]FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the stabilizer pad ofFIG. 4 in the position for engaging a smooth surface;

[0026]FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of astabilizer pad with the stabilizer pad in the position for engaging asmooth surface;

[0027]FIG. 12 is a side view of the stabilizer pad of FIG. 11;

[0028]FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side view taken along line 13-13 ofFIG. 11 with the stabilizer pad in the position for engaging a dirt orgravel surface;

[0029]FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of astabilizer pad with the stabilizer pad in the position for engaging asmooth surface;

[0030]FIG. 15 is a front view of the stabilizer pad of FIG. 14 as takenalong line 15-15 of FIG. 14;

[0031]FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the stabilizer pad ofFIG. 14;

[0032]FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of astabilizer pad with the stabilizer pad in the position for engaging asmooth surface;

[0033]FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of the stabilizer padshown in FIG. 17;

[0034]FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of astabilizer pad with the stabilizer pad in the position for engaging asmooth surface;

[0035]FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the stabilizer pad ofFIG. 19;

[0036]FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of astabilizer pad with the stabilizer pad in the position for engaging asmooth surface;

[0037]FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of the stabilizer pad ofFIG. 21; and

[0038]FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of a sixth embodiment of astabilizer pad with the stabilizer pad in the position for engaging asmooth surface.

[0039]FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of thepresent invention with the stabilizer pad in a position for engaging asmooth surface;

[0040]FIG. 25 is an exploded view of the stabilizer pad of FIG. 24;

[0041]FIG. 26 is a perspective view of still another embodiment of thepresent invention employing a reversible resilient pad;

[0042]FIG. 27 is an exploded view of the stabilizer pad of FIG. 26;

[0043]FIG. 28 is an illustration of a backhoe embodying an offset padconstruction;

[0044]FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the offset pad construction alsoemploying a releasable latch;

[0045]FIG. 30 is a plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 29;

[0046]FIG. 31 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 29 with the latchin a locked position;

[0047]FIG. 32 is a side view with the latch in a released position;

[0048]FIG. 33 is a side view of the stabilizer pad with the pad rotatedthrough 180°;

[0049]FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a padconstruction;

[0050]FIG. 35 is a side elevational view of the pad construction of FIG.34;

[0051]FIG. 36 is a front elevational view of the pad construction ofFIG. 34, partially broken away to show the pad construction;

[0052]FIG. 37 is an alternate cross-sectional detail showing a swagingtechnique;

[0053]FIG. 38 is a side elevational view of another embodiment;

[0054]FIG. 39 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 38;

[0055]FIG. 40 is a cross-sectional plan view taken along line 40-40 ofFIG. 39;

[0056]FIG. 41 is a cross-sectional side view taken along line 41-41 ofFIG. 39;

[0057]FIG. 42 is a side elevational view of another embodiment using atriangular-shaped pad;

[0058]FIG. 43 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 42;

[0059]FIG. 44 is a perspective view of still another embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0060]FIG. 45 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 44 an the clawposition;

[0061]FIG. 46 is a front elevational view of the embodiment of FIG. 44as taken along line 46-46 of FIG. 44;

[0062]FIG. 47 is a fragmentary exploded perspective view of the lockingpin;

[0063]FIG. 48 is a perspective view of still another embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0064]FIG. 49 is a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 48 an the clawposition;

[0065]FIG. 50 is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of FIGS.48 and 49;

[0066]FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 51-51 of FIG.48;

[0067]FIG. 52 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of an alternate padconstruction;

[0068]FIGS. 53A and 53B show cross-sectional views of pad constructionsusing a forced pin;

[0069]FIG. 54 is a perspective view of still a further embodiment of thepresent invention;

[0070]FIG. 54A is a perspective view of yet another ambodiment of thepresent invention;

[0071]FIG. 54B is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 54Aas taken along line 54B-54B of FIG. 54A;

[0072]FIG. 54C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 55C-54C ofFIG. 54B;

[0073]FIG. 54D is an exploded perspective view of the embodiment of FIG.54A;

[0074]FIG. 55 is a perspective view of still a further embodiment of thepresent invention using a latch construction;

[0075]FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view of the embodiment of FIG. 55 astaken along line 56-56 of FIG. 55; and

[0076]FIG. 57 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 57-57 of FIG.56;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] This invention is not limited in its application to the detailsof construction and the arrangement of components set forth in thefollowing description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention iscapable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carriedout in various ways. Also, the phraseology and terminology used hereinis for the purpose of description and should not be regarded aslimiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having,”“containing”, “involving”, and variations thereof herein, is meant toencompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well asadditional items.

[0078] One embodiment of a stabilizer pad 118 in accordance with thepresent invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. 4-10. Asunderstood by those skilled in the art, stabilizer pads in accordancewith embodiments of the present invention may be used with a backhoe asshown in FIG. 1, and may also be used with other vehicles or platformshaving stabilizing members for stabilizing the vehicle or platform.

[0079] The stabilizer pad 118 has a substantially U-shaped frame formedin one embodiment from a continuous steel sheet. The continuous steelsheet is bent to form the U-shape consisting of a base plate 122 andflanges 124 nd 126. Each of the flanges 124 and 126 has outer grouserpoints 130 and inner grouser points 131.

[0080] Mounted to the underside of the base plate 122 is a resilient pad140. The resilient pad 140 is secured to the frame using brackets 142 aand 142 b which respectfully couple to flanges 124 and 126. The bracketsare mounted to the flanges using bolts 144, nuts 146 and washers 148, asbest shown in FIG. 10.

[0081] The resilient pad 140 is formed using a plurality of rubberstrips 150 that are compressed using brackets 142 a and 142 b and steelrods 152. In the embodiment shown, the steel rods 152 are welded to eachof the brackets 142 a and 142b, however, in other embodiments, the steelrods can be replaced by bolts and nuts. In one embodiment of the presentinvention, the rubber strips are made from sidewall segments of trucktire carcasses or from rubber conveyor belts, both of which have beenfound to provide desirable flexibility and surface friction for use instabilizer pads.

[0082] Each of the flanges 124 and 126 has a hole, respectfully 134 and135 in alignment with bushings 136 and 137. The holes and bushings aredesigned to accommodate the pin 34 of the stabilizer arm 14 to couplethe stabilizer arm to the stabilizer pad as in the prior art.

[0083] The stabilizer pad 118 includes an optional cam 156 mounted tobushing 136. In addition, the stabilizer arm 14 includes a polyethylenewheel 154 mounted to the side of the stabilizer arm as shown in FIG. 4,using a bolt and a nut. In one embodiment, the cam is made from a steelrod and is welded to the bushing, however, in other embodiments, the cammay be made from other relatively hard materials and fastened to the armusing other techniques. The polyethylene wheel and cam preventinadvertent flipping of the stabilizer pad as described further belowand as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/909,524, whichis incorporated herein by reference. Other mechanisms for preventingself-flipping, such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,054,812 and5,667,245, may also be used with stabilizer pads of the presentinvention.

[0084] Stabilizer pad 118 is rotatable about pin 34 when the stabilizerarm is in its upright position to place either the resilient pad 140 orthe grouser points 130 downward to engage the ground when the stabilizerarms are lowered to stabilize the vehicle. When the vehicle is operatedon a smooth, finished ground surface, it is desirable to place theresilient pad 140 of the stabilizer pad 118 in contact with the groundsurface. When the vehicle is operated on a rough or unfinished groundsurface, it is desirable to position the stabilizer pad such that theouter grouser points 130, and in some instances the inner grouser points131, contact the ground surface. FIGS. 4 and 6 show the stabilizer padwith the resilient pad 140 in position to engage the ground surface,while FIGS. 5 and 7 show the stabilizer pad with the outer grouserpoints 130 in position to engage the ground surface.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 7, the outer grouser points 130 are slightlylonger than the inner grouser points 131 allowing the outer grouserpoints to contact the ground surface to provide maximum stability. Onparticularly rough or uneven surfaces, the inner grouser points may alsocontact the ground surface. In other embodiments of the presentinvention, the stabilizer pad 118 may not include the inner grouserpoints.

[0086] As briefly discussed above, the polyethylene wheel 154 and cam156 are used to prevent the stabilizer pad 118 from inadvertentlyflipping when the stabilizer arm is raised. The weight of the resilientpad 140 may cause the stabilizer pad to flip from the position shown inFIG. 7 to that shown in FIG. 6 by rotating in the direction of arrow 160when the stabilizer arm is raised. When the stabilizer pad rotates inthe direction shown by arrow 160, the cam 156 contacts the wheel 154 andprevents further rotation of the stabilizer pad. When it is desired toflip the stabilizer pad from the position shown in FIG. 7 to that shownin FIG. 6, additional rotational force can be applied to the stabilizerpad by an operator of the vehicle to cause the polyethylene wheel 154 todeform slightly and allow the cam to pass by the polyethylene wheel.

[0087] To rotate the stabilizer pad from the position shown in FIG. 6 tothat shown in FIG. 7, the stabilizer pad is rotated approximately 135°about the pin 34 in the direction shown by arrow 162 (see FIG. 6).Similarly, to move from the position shown in FIG. 7 to that shown inFIG. 6, the stabilizer pad 118 is rotated approximately 135° about pin34 in the direction shown by arrow 160.

[0088] A second embodiment of a stabilizer pad 218 in accordance withthe present invention will now be described with reference to FIGS.11-13, which show the stabilizer pad 218 mounted to a stabilizer arm214. Stabilizer arm 214 differs from stabilizer arm 14 in that itincludes only one pin 234 for coupling to both a hydraulic piston 215and to the stabilizer pad 218. In addition, the stabilizer arm 214includes a steel plate 216 contained within the stabilizer arm toprovide rigidity to the stabilizer arm. Stabilizer pad 218 is similar tostabilizer pad 118, and similar components are labeled using the samereference numbers. Stabilizer pad 218 differs from stabilizer pad 18 inthat the bushings 236 and 237 used to mount the stabilizer pad 218 tothe stabilizer arm 214 are sized to accommodate the pin 234.

[0089] A third embodiment of a stabilizer pad 318 for use on thestabilizer arm 14 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 14-16.The third embodiment includes flange pieces 324 and 326 and a resilientpad 340. The flanges 324 and 326 are coupled together through the pin 34of the stabilizer arm and are coupled to the resilient pad 340. Theflange pieces have bushings 336 and 337 for receiving the pin 34. Eachof the flange pieces has a pair of outer grouser points 330 and threeinner grouser points 331. Each of the flange pieces also includes a pairof right angle re-enforcing sections 332 and 334, which providestructural re-enforcement for the pad and as described below provideadditional stabilization when the stabilizer pad is used on a rough orunfinished surface. The right angle sections 332 also function asmounting brackets for mounting the reversible resilient pad 340, andeach of the right angle sections 332 includes mounting holes 345 forthis purpose.

[0090] The resilient pad 340, similar to the pad 140 of the firstembodiment, is formed from a plurality of rubber strips 350. The rubberstrips 350 are compressed between brackets 342 a and 342 b using steelrods 352. Each of the rubber strips 350 and the brackets 342 a and 342 bhas a slot 362 to receive a mounting plate 322. The mounting plate 322has mounting holes 360 that align with mounting holes 345 on the flangesto mount the mounting plate to the flanges using bolts 349, washers 346and nuts 348. In one version of the third embodiment, the flanges 324and 326 and the mounting plate 322 are made from steel.

[0091] One significant advantage of the embodiment of the inventionshown in FIGS. 14-16 is that the resilient pad 340 is reversible toextend the life of the pad. The resilient pad 340 can be mounted suchthat either surface 368 contacts the ground (as shown in FIG. 15), orsuch that surface 366 of the pad contacts the ground. With the resilientpad 340 removed from the flanges, the resilient pad can be rotated 180degrees to change from surface 368 of the pad facing down to surface 366of the pad facing down. The rubber strips used with stabilizer pads canwear over time, and the ability to change surfaces of the resilient pad340 significantly extends the usable life of the resilient pad.

[0092] Stabilizer pad 318 is rotatable about pin 34 in a manner similarto stabilizer pad 118 described above to allow either the resilient pad340 or the grouser points to contact the ground. As with stabilizer pad118, the outer grouser points 330 are longer than the inner grouserpoints 331.

[0093] In FIGS. 14 and 15, stabilizer pad 318 is shown mounted to thestabilizer arm 14 using pin 34. In other embodiments, the stabilizer pad318 may be mounted to stabilizer arm 214 using a common pin, such as pin234 in FIG. 11, with the hydraulic piston 215.

[0094] The right angle sections 332 and 334 provide additional stabilityfor the stabilizer pad 318 when the grouser points 330 contact theground. Typical grouser points, such as those provided on flanges 24 and26 of prior art stabilizer pad 18 (FIG. 3), have angled surfacesextending in opposite directions along one axis from the tip of thegrouser point. Grouser points 330 have angled surfaces 370 and 371extending from the tip of the grouser points in opposite directionsalong an x axis (see FIG. 14 for axis orientation), and in addition haveangled surfaces 372 extending in a direction along a y-axis orthogonalto the x-axis. The right angle sections provide additional stability byresisting movement of the stabilizer pad in the y-axis direction. Asunderstood by one skilled in the art, in other embodiments, the rightangle sections 332 and 334 may form an angle other than ninety degreeswith the flanges.

[0095] A fourth embodiment of a stabilizer pad 418 in accordance withthe present invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. 17and 18. Stabilizer pad 418 is similar to stabilizer pad 318 and likeparts are labeled using the same reference numbers. Stabilizer pad 418differs from stabilizer pad 318 in that the resilient pad 440 ofstabilizer pad 418 has two separate slots 462 a and 462 b rather thanone slot 362 as in resilient pad 340 of stabilizer pad 418. In addition,the mounting plate 322 of stabilizer pad 318 is replaced by two separatemounting plates 422 a and 422 b in stabilizer pad 418. In the fourthembodiment, two mounting plates are used to mount the resilient pad tothe flanges, in other embodiments, more than two mounting plates may beused. In the third and fourth embodiments, the mounting plate ormounting plates act as the base plate for the stabilizer pads.

[0096] A fifth embodiment of a stabilizer pad 518 in accordance with thepresent invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and20. Stabilizer pad 518 is similar to stabilizer pad 318 and like partsare labeled using the same reference numbers. The primary differencebetween stabilizer pad 518 and stabilizer pad 318 is that a mountingplate is not used to mount the resilient pad to the flanges. Rather,bolts are used to compress the rubber strips of the resilient padbetween the flanges of the stabilizer pad 518 as described below. Inthis embodiment, the resilient pad acts as the base plate of thestabilizer pad. Also the bolts function as a plate support of the pad.

[0097] Stabilizer pad 518 includes flanges 524 and 526 and resilient pad540. Flanges 524 and 526 are similar to flanges 324 and 326 ofstabilizer pad 318, except that flanges 524 and 526 do not include rightangle brackets 332, and flanges 524 and 526 include mounting holes 545for mounting the resilient pad to the flanges using bolts 549, washers546 and nuts 548.

[0098] Resilient pad 540 includes rubber strips 550, each of which hasholes 562 for receiving the bolts 549. Resilient pad 540 differs fromresilient pad 340 in that pad 540 does not include metal brackets forcompressing the rubber strips 550. In stabilizer pad 518, the rubberstrips 550 are compressed together between the flanges 524 and 526 usingthe bolts 549 and the nuts 548. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 19 and20, the holes 562 for the bolts 549 in the resilient pad 540 arecentered between a first planar surface 566 and a second planar surface568 of the pad 540. This allows the resilient pad to be reversible sothat either the first planar surface or the second planar surface ispositioned to contact the ground.

[0099] A sixth embodiment of a stabilizer pad 618 will now be furtherdescribed with reference to FIGS. 21 and 22. Stabilizer pad 618 issimilar to stabilizer pad 118 described above in that both have asubstantial U-shaped frame made from a continuous steel sheet.Stabilizer pad 618 differs from stabilizer pad 118 in that the degree ofrotation from one working side of the stabilizer pad to the otherworking side is 180 degrees for stabilizer pad 618 verses 135 degreesfor stabilizer pad 118.

[0100] The U-shaped frame of stabilizer pad 618 includes a base plate622, flanges 624 and 626 and a resilient pad 640. Each of the flangeshas grouser points 630. The resilient pad is mounted to mounting holes639 of the base plate 622 using bolts 649, washers 646 and nuts 648. Theresilient pad 640, like resilient pad 140, is formed using a pluralityof rubber strips 650 that are compressed using brackets 642 a and 642 band steel rods 652. In the embodiment shown, the steel rods 652 arewelded to each of the brackets 642 a and 642 b. Each of the brackets 642a and 642 b have right angle sections 643 having holes 644 for mountingthe resilient pad 640 to the base plate 622.

[0101] A seventh embodiment of a stabilizer pad 718 in accordance withthe present invention will now be described with reference to FIG. 23.Stabilizer pad 718 is substantially identical to stabilizer pad 618except that the U-shaped frame of stabilizer pad 618 is replaced by twoflange sections 724 and 726. Each of the flange sections has grouserpoints 730 and a right angle bracket 722 having mounting holes 739 formounting the resilient pad to the flange sections.

[0102] In stabilizer pads 618 and 718, all of the grouser points 630 and730 are shown as being of approximately the same height. In otherversions, the outermost grouser points on each of the flanges may belonger than the inner grouser points to provide four-point contact ofthe stabilizer pads at substantially the outermost points on thestabilizer pads to maximize stability.

[0103] In other versions of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 21-23, theflanges and brackets can be modified to accommodate the resilient pad140 shown in FIG. 4, or one of the reversible resilient pads shown inFIGS. 14, 17 and 20.

[0104] The embodiments of the invention shown in FIGS. 11-23 do notinclude the cam 156 and the wheel 158 described above with respect tothe stabilizer pad 118. As understood by one skilled in the art, toprevent self-flipping of the stabilizer pads shown in FIGS. 11-23, thecam 156 could be included on the stabilizer pads and the wheel 158 couldbe included on the arm.

[0105] Some embodiments of the present invention described above havereversible rubber pads. The reversible pads could be replaced withsingle-sided pads as understood by those skilled in the art.

[0106] One advantage of embodiments of stabilizer pads of the presentinvention over prior art stabilizer pads is a reduction in manufacturingcosts. In the first embodiment of the present invention, described abovewith reference to FIGS. 4-10, the U-shaped frame can be formed from onepiece of steel without requiring any welding. Alternatively, theU-shaped frame could be manufactured as a single cast piece. A furtherreduction in manufacturing costs is provided by the use of a singlelaminated pad in place of the three laminated pads used in the prior artstabilizer pad shown in FIGS. 1-3. In addition to reducing manufacturingcosts, stabilizer pads of the present invention are inherentlystructurally stronger than prior art pads and are therefore lesssusceptible to wear and have an extended operational life, even inadverse operating environments. Also, the use of a reversible laminatedpad significantly increases the life of stabilizer pads of the presentinvention.

[0107] In the prior art, one side of the resilient pad used withstabilizer pads is typically coupled to a rigid mounting member formounting the resilient pad to the stabilizer pad. The resilient padsused in embodiments of the present invention are mounted to thestabilizer pad at a central point in the pad to allow the pad to havetwo or more working surfaces to significantly extend the life of thepad. In illustrative embodiments described above, resilient pads havetwo working surfaces. However, the present invention is not limited topads having two working surfaces, but includes pads with more than twoworking surfaces.

[0108] In embodiments of the present invention described above,stabilizer pads include flanges having grouser points for engaging arough or gravel ground surface. As understood by those skilled in theart, grouser points used with embodiments of the present invention arenot limited to tapered steel points formed in the flanges, but alsoinclude other gripping devices arranged on the stabilizer pad to enablethe stabilizer pad to grip a rough or gravel surface to prevent thestabilizer pad from slipping.

[0109] An eighth embodiment of a stabilizer pad 818 in accordance withthe present invention will now be described with reference to FIGS. 24and 25. Furthermore, a ninth embodiment of a stabilizer pad 918 willalso now be described with reference to FIGS. 26 and 27. Both of theseembodiments employ basic stabilizer pad constructions of the typedescribed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,761,021 and 5,050,904. Theseconstructions support the resilient pad laterally in a spacedside-by-side relationship rather than most of the earlier embodimentsdescribed herein in which the resilient pad is centrally supported.

[0110] With further specific reference to FIGS. 24 and 25, there isdescribed a stabilizer pad 818 supported from a stabilizer arm 814. Forthis support there is provided the bushings 836 and 837 for receivingthe support pin 834.

[0111] The pad itself is comprised of separate flanges 824 and 826. Eachof these flanges has a respective base 823 and 825. For example, theflange 824 is formed with a base 823 in a right angle arrangement and isconstructed of a single piece of heavy-duty metal.

[0112] Each of the flanges 824 and 826 have respective grouser points831 and 833. In this particular embodiment there are two grouser pointsassociated with each flange and the grouser points are disposedsymmetrically with respect to the bushings associated with each flange.This provides a stable grouser point construction when the pad is usedin rough terrain such as in dirt or gravel. In this regard, in theorientation of the pad illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25, rather than thegrouser points contacting the ground, the resilient pads 840 are inposition for contact with a ground surface such as an asphalt orconcrete surface.

[0113] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25 the flanges 824and 826 are interconnected by a cross-piece 821 disposed at one end ofeach of the flanges. This provides an open center section that receivesthe arm 814.

[0114] The embodiment of FIGS. 24 and 25 provides a quite simplified wayof attaching the resilient pad 840 to either of the flanges 823 or 825.For this purpose, each of the flanges is provided with a plurality ofslots 860. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 24 three slots 860 areprovided. However, it is understood that fewer or greater numbers ofslots can be employed.

[0115] Depending upon the number of slots provided, the resilient pad840 is likewise cut-out on its top section to provide upstandingportions 866, each having a hole 864 extending therethrough, such asillustrated particularly clearly in FIG. 25. Each of these upstandingportions 866 extends through a corresponding slot 860 into the positionillustrated in FIG. 24. A plurality of cross-rods 862 are then used.These extend into the holes 864 and preferably provide a press-fit. Therods 862 are preferably positioned against the top surface of the flangeon either side and may be welded to the flange or secured in any othersuitable manner to the flange so that the cross-rods do not disengage.

[0116] Prior to assembly, the resilient pad 840 which is comprised of aplurality of rubber strips 850, is secured together. These individualstrips can be joined together by several different means such as bygluing, stapling, bolting or riveting. Also, the resilient pad 840 canbe a single piece molded block still having the cut slots defining theupstanding portions. Further, the strip could be left unglued.

[0117] Now, reference is made to the ninth embodiment of the presentinvention illustrated in FIGS. 26 and 27. This embodiment, althoughsimilar to the embodiment of FIGS. 24 and 25, is different in that theresilient pad 940 in the ninth embodiment is reversible. In this way theresilient pad 940 can be removed and essentially rotated through 180° sothat extended wear of the pad becomes an important aspect of thisparticular construction.

[0118] With further reference to FIGS. 26 and 27 there is shown astabilizer pad 918 that is comprised of flanges 924 and 926. Theseflanges are similar to the flanges illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25 andthus include respective grouser points 931 and 933. Instead of thesingle base piece illustrated in the eighth embodiment, in the ninthembodiment, as illustrated clearly in FIG. 27, there are provided basepieces 923 a and 923 b. Likewise, the flange 926 has associatedtherewith base pieces 925 a and 925 b. Each of these base pieces extendsat a right angle from its associated flange and the base pieces arespaced from each other a predetermined distance. Each of the base piecesis provided with a hole at the end thereof for receiving a stud 960,which in turn receives a corresponding cotter pin 962. The purpose ofthe stud and cotter pin is to secure the resilient pad 940 to these basepieces.

[0119] The flanges 924 and 926 are supported from the stabilizer arm 914by means of the bushings 936 and 937 which receive the pivot pin 934.Also, the flanges are interconnected by means of the cross-piece 921illustrated in FIG. 27.

[0120] The resilient pad 940 is constructed of a number of individualstrips or segments 950. These segments are secured together and form asomewhat oblong shape. The shape could also be rectangular, circular,hexagon, triangular, octagon, or some other form and preferably has alower contact surface 941 and an upper contact surface 943. These twosurfaces are preferably, but not necessarily, parallel to each other.

[0121] The resilient pad 940 is supported in a central manner and forthat purpose there are provided slots 945 that extend through the pad.The base pieces extend into these slots and the pad is finallypositioned in the manner illustrated in FIG. 26. To hold the padtogether, the individually strips may be glued, stapled, bolted orriveted. Alternatively, the strip may be left unglued. Also, there isprovided an end plate 966 also having slots corresponding to the slotsin the pad material itself. As illustrated in FIG. 26 the studs 960extend through end holes in each of the base pieces. These studs mayalso bear against the outer surface of the end plate 966 and are held inposition by means of the aforementioned cotter pins 962.

[0122] Also, a bolt 964 of somewhat elongated construction extendsthrough the resilient pad and through a hole 965 in the flange 924. Thebolt 964 is secured by means of a washer 970 and a nut 968. The bolt 964and its associated nut and washer is used, of course, on each of thepads associated with the respective flanges 924 and 926.

[0123] As can be seen quite readily, in the embodiment of FIGS. 26 and27, the pad 940 is reversible. This can be reversed by simply removingthe bolt 964 and the studs 960 and rotating the pads so that rather thansurface 941 being the ground contact surface, the surface 943 is theground contact surface.

[0124] A further embodiment of the present invention is now illustratedin FIGS. 28-33. This particular pad construction may be referred to asan offset pad. It has been found that due to certain machineconstraints, clearances between the pad and machine make this offsetarrangement more advantageous. For example, machine tires or fenders maybe arranged so that a symmetrical type pad cannot be employed. Thedesign in this last embodiment provides an offset arrangement yetallowing the loading on the resilient pads to be equalized. Proper padbalance may be achieved without the use of additional counterweights.

[0125]FIG. 28 is a depiction of a backhoe 875 with there being provideda stabilizer arm 876 depicted as having the offset pad 880 affixedthereto. By way of example it is noted that a fender 877 is arranged ina manner so that if the symmetrical pad were to be used there would beinterference between the pad and the body of the vehicle. Accordingly,by means of this offset pad arrangement there is no interference betweenthe pad and any parts of the body of the vehicle.

[0126] The pad 880 is constructed with a base 882 having, as illustratedin, for example, FIG. 30, offset legs 890 and 891. Associated with legs890 and 891 are upstanding flanges 892 and 893, respectively. Each ofthese flanges have a pair of grouser points 894 such as illustrated inFIG. 33. FIG. 31 shows the pad in the position in which the grouserpoints are engaging the ground surface.

[0127] This last embodiment of the present invention also illustrates aresilient pad 975, one associated with each of the legs 890 and 891. Thepad 975 may be constructed of a series of separate resilient strips 976,all secured together and disposed within a U-shaped holder 977. Asillustrated in FIGS. 31-33, a series of rods 979 may be employed to holdthe resilient pad in the U-shaped holder 977. For a somewhat similar padconstruction refer to U.S. Pat. No. 4,761,021 which is herebyincorporated by reference hereinto.

[0128] As illustrated in FIG. 30, the offset legs 890 and 891 are ofdifferent length. Leg 890 is shorter than the leg 891. Accordingly, theresilient pad on the leg 890 is arranged more towards the outer end ofthe pad construction while the pad associated with leg 891 is disposedmore inwardly of the pad construction.

[0129] This embodiment of the present invention also illustrates animportant concept in a releasable latch. Although this releasable latchis illustrated with regard to the embodiment of FIGS. 28-33, such areleasable latch may also be used with other embodiments of the presentinvention described herein.

[0130] This embodiment of the invention illustrates the latch 980. Thelatch 980 is supported from the arm by means of a pivot pin 982. Alsosupported from the arm is a fixed position stop 984. The latch 980 has aslot 986 for engaging with the stop 984. As illustrated is, for example,FIG. 31 a cam 988 is provided to interact with the latch 980. The cam988 is supported from bushing 990. The cam 988 may be a fixed metal rod.The releasable latch 980 is made of a resilient material. It may be ofmaterial 95 a Duro with a thickness of ⅞^(ths) inch.

[0131] Now, with regard to FIG. 31, it is noted that the latch isbasically in its locked position. The stop 984 is engaged with the latchand the far end of the latch is in turn engaged with the cam 988.However, because the latch 980 is resilient it will allow the pad toreverse if potentially damaging obstacles are encountered when operatingthe machine.

[0132] Also, the latch can be released as is illustrated in FIG. 32. Bypushing the latch manually in the direction of arrow 991, the latchessentially disengages from cam 988. This permits the pad to then berotated to the position illustrated if FIG. 33 with the resilient padsnow in engagement with the ground surface. In connection with theillustration of FIG. 32, it is noted that the latch 980 has a tab 993that functions as a spring to return the latch to its locked position.In the position of FIG. 33 the latch is in its locked position but isnot in engagement with the cam as the pad has been rotated to its otherposition.

[0133] In the previous embodiments described in FIGS. 4-33, as well asother embodiments to be described hereinafter, the pad is shown as alaminated pad with several separate pad layers. In other embodiments inaccordance with the invention, such as illustrated in FIG. 16, the padmay be a single pad pack of laminated construction, or alternatively, apad pack of a single piece block or multiple blocks. When a block ofresilient material is used it may be molded or otherwise formed, such asby cutting from a larger block of resilient material. When individuallayers or strips are used they are preferably oriented vertically, asillustrated in FIG. 16, or could be oriented horizontally or angularly.When individual trips, blocks or layers are used they may be joinedtogether using various techniques such as gluing, stapling, screwing,nailing, riveting, bolting or welding. Also, the strips, blocks orlayers may be encapsulated by dipping, molding, coating, orshrink-wrapping with various components.

[0134] In at least some of the previous embodiments described in FIGS.4-33, as well as other embodiments to be described hereinafter, the padis reversible. Not only that, but also, the pad is formed as a pad packor pad assembly making the reversal of the pad very easy. The pad packscan be stored, each as a unit, and in readiness for use. Also, the padpack arrangement makes it easy to reverse from one side of the pad tothe other, without having to disassemble any part of the pad pack. Thisease of use and reversal makes the pad more useable in the field. Thisis invaluable, in that operating with worn out pads causes substantialdamage to paved surfaces. The repair of the damaged surface is typicallyan additional expense that can be readily avoided with the constructionof the present invention.

[0135] Reference is now made to FIGS. 34 through 36 for anotherembodiment of the present invention. This describes a stabilizer padconstruction in which the resilient pad is directly supported from thearm of the machine. As with other embodiments described herein, thestabilizer arm 1014 has the stabilizer pads 1018 supported therefrom bymeans of opposite end pin segments of support pin 1016. In the versionof FIGS. 34 and 35, there are two pad packs supported, respectively,outboard on either side of the arm 1014. Each pad pack is comprised of aplurality of resilient pad layers 1019 that are held together byoppositely disposed side plates 1020. Also shown in FIGS. 34 and 35 arethrough pins 1022. These may be solid or hollow pins. In FIG. 34 two ofthese are shown associated with each pad pack, however, any number ofsecuring pins may be used. Each pin may be held to the side plate bybeing flanged at the end. See also FIG. 37 for an illustration of theflanging operation. Alternatively, the pins or rods may be welded attheir ends to the side plates, or a bolting arrangement may be used

[0136] In FIGS. 34 through 36 each of the pad packs are supporteddirectly from opposite ends of the support pin 1016. Each of the padpacks is held to its associated pin segment by means of a sleeve 1024which extends through the pad pack, a washer 1026 and a cotter pin 1028.The sleeve 1024 may be a permanent part of the pad pack and is readilyengageable and disengageable with the pin 1016. The pin 1016 ispreferably a single piece pin but could also be two separate pins. Inthe illustrated embodiment the pin 1016 is free to rotate in the arm1014. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 34 through 36 the pad packis readily reversible so that either surface 1018A or 1018B may be usedas the ground engaging surface. A latch arrangement (not shown) may beused for holding the pad pack in a particular ground engaging surface.FIG. 35 shows, in solid outline, the pad with the surface 1018A inground engagement and also shows, in dotted outline, the rotation of thepad so as to change to the opposite surface. Also, in the embodiment ofFIGS. 34 and 35 the pad packs are separately supported and thus need notbe rotated from one position to the other in unison. Should the wear beuneven on either pad pack, then it is possible that only one pad packwill be reversed and the other maintained in the existing groundengaging position. FIG. 36 is a front elevational view of the padconstruction of FIG. 34, partially broken away to show the padconstruction.

[0137] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 34 through 36 it is notedthat there is no flanged weldment and instead, each of the pad packs ismounted in a relatively simple manner directly from the associated padsupport pin. This provides a relative simple and inexpensive, and yetdurable, pad construction.

[0138]FIG. 37 shows an alternate way of securing a hollow pin or tube1023 within the pad pack 1018. FIG. 37 also schematically illustratesthe flaring or swaging tool 1025 that is closed in the direction ofarrows 1027 to flare the opposite ends of the securing tube 1023. Theflared end of the tube 1023 bear against the side plates and hold thelaminate in a secure position, making for a tight pad pack. Any numberof securing tubes may be used, preferably at a minimum two, but usuallymore than two.

[0139] Reference is now made to FIGS. 38-41 for another embodiment ofthe present invention similar to that described in FIGS. 34 through 36.In this embodiment the stabilizer pad construction is also directlysupported from the arm of the machine. FIGS. 38-41 illustrate thestabilizer arm 1034, having supported therefrom, the resilient pad packs1032A and 1032B. Each of these packs is comprised of a plurality oflayers that are compressed together. In the particular embodiment ofFIGS. 38-41 bolts 1035 are used for securing the laminate layerstogether usually in a compressed state. The bolts 1035 extend betweenopposite side plates 1036. The outer facing plate 1036 may be loose andheld in position by the bolts 1035, while the inner facing plate 1036 ispreferably welded to the sleeve 1038 (see FIG. 40). A lug 1042 isprovided between the pad and the arm. The lug 1042 is welded to thesleeve 1038 as indicated at 1043. FIG. 40 also shows a further weld 1045between the side plate 1036 and the lug 1042. The through sleeve 1038 isshown in FIG. 40 positioned on the support pin 1040. The pad and sleeveare pinned or bolted to the pivot pin 1040. This is provided by the bolt1046. As illustrated in FIG. 39, there are bolts 1046 on either side ofthe arm 1034. By bolting the supporting pin with its associated pads,and providing the pin 1040 extending as a single piece pin through thearm, then the pads will rotate together.

[0140] FIGS. 38-41 also illustrate a stabilizing or latching arrangementthat will inhibit the self-rotation of the resilient pad packs. Thisstructure is illustrated in FIGS. 38-41 as including resilient wheels1047 that are adapted to cooperate with anti-rotation lugs 1048. Thelugs 1048 are integral with the through sleeve 1038. FIG. 38 illustratesthe rotation of the pad in the direction of arrows 1049, and furtherillustrates the manner in which the lugs 1048 limit the rotationalmovement of the pad by engagement with one or the other of the resilientwheels 1047. FIG. 41 shows the pad 1032 in its normal,horizontally-disposed, position with the lugs 1048 out of engagementwith the wheels 1047. However, should the pad start to rotate dependingupon the terrain that it is engaging, the lugs 1048 engage with thewheels 1047 and inhibit any further rotation, other than to the extremepositions illustrated in FIG. 38.

[0141] The resilient wheels 1047 are constructed of a resilient materialso that they are capable of some deflection. Accordingly, when it isdesired to rotate from one position to the other, the arm of the machinemay be lifted and the operator may then rotate the pad with the lug 1048passing by the wheel 1047 with a certain amount of force being needed tobe applied by the operator to engage past the resilient wheel.

[0142] Reference is now made to FIGS. 42 and 43 for a further embodimentof the present invention similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 38-41 butemploying a pair of triangular shaped pads 1050. These pads 1050 arealso supported by means of a single common support pin 1052 that issupported from the stabilizer arm 1054. This embodiment also includesside plates 1055, bolts 1056, sleeves 1057, lugs 1058 and securing bolts1060. A resilient wheel latch arrangement is also provided in thisembodiment. For this purpose, associated with the sleeve 1057 are threeanti-rotation lugs 1062 that are adapted to engage with the tworesilient wheels 1064. Each of the two wheels 1064 are supported fromthe side of the stabilizer arm 1054 as illustrated in FIG. 43. Theinteraction of the lugs 1062 and the wheels 1064 operate in the samemanner as described in connection with the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 38-41, inhibiting the rotation of the pad beyond a certain amountso as to prevent undesired self-flipping of the pad. The bolts 1060 thenengage with the lug and the support sleeve to provide for commonrotation between the oppositely disposed pads.

[0143] Reference is now made to still another embodiment of the presentinvention illustrated in FIGS. 44-47. In this particular embodiment thepad construction comprises a pair of laterally-disposed side plates orflanges 1066 that are supported from the stabilizer arm 1067 by means ofthe support pin 1068. The pin 1068 is received by the stabilizer arm1067 and extends on either side of the arm for support of the sideplates 1066. The pin 1068 may be free to rotate in the arm 1067. The pin1068 may also be free to rotate relative to the flanges, or may be fixedagainst rotation relative to the flanges. The side plates may besupported in a manner as previously described in conjunction withearlier embodiments such as those illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0144] In the embodiment of FIGS. 44-47 there is illustrated thelaminated resilient pad 1070 that is secured along a lower edge 1071 ofthe respective side plates or flanges 1066. The laminated resilient pad1070 is secured by means of three through bolts 1072. The pad itself isa laminated pad constructed of a plurality of secured resilient padlayers. All working loads associated with the apparatus are transferredfrom the resilient pad material to the side flanges or plates throughthe pad-supporting member whether it be by means of pins, rods, bolts,lugs, bars, plates, or the like.

[0145] The construction illustrate in FIGS. 44-47 also preferablyincludes a connecting plate 1074 that extends between the laterallydisposed side plates 1066. Preferably, the front of the plate 1074 isturned upwardly as indicated at 1075 in FIG. 44. The plate 1074 isprimarily for support between the side plates 1066 and is positionedspaced above the pad pack, out of contact therewith.

[0146] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 44-47 the laminatedresilient pad 1070 is also reversible. Once one of the wear surfacesbecomes worn down or damaged, the bolts 172 may be withdrawn and the padcan then be reversed so that the opposite side of the pad becomes theground engaging surface. The bolts are then reinserted and tightened.

[0147] This embodiment of the present invention also employs a latch pin1076 and associated hitch pin 1077. The side plates 1066 are providedwith holes 1078 for receiving the latch pin 1076. Each of the holes hasa keyway slot for receiving the head 1079 of the latch pin 1076. Thereis a small hole in the head 1079 of the latch pin 1076 for receiving thehitch pin 1077. FIG. 47 is an exploded view showing the variouscomponents of the latch arrangement including the latch pin 1076 and thehitch pin 1077. The latch pin 1076 is shown in FIG. 44 in its storedposition, out of use. In this stored position the pin does provide somelimited inhibiting of rotation of the pad assembly. In an alternateembodiment the latch pin 1076 can be secured by other means such as abolt and nut or a large cotter key with a hitch pin.

[0148] In FIGS. 44 and 45 it is noted that there are a pair of holes1078 for receiving the latch pin in either of two different positionsdepending upon whether the resilient pad is going to be engaging theground or whether the grouser end 1073 is going to be engaging theground. In FIG. 44 the resilient side of the pad is engaging the groundwhile in FIG. 45 the pad has been moved to a position wherein thegrouser points at 1073 are engaging the ground. It is furthermore notedthat the rotation from one position to the other is not through 180° butinstead is through approximately only a 90° rotation of the resilientpad construction. In FIG. 44 the latch pin 1076, in its stored position,is shown disposed between the end of the arm 1067 and the plate 1074.The latch pin 1076 is held in position by the hitch pin 1077 passingthrough the hole in the head 1079 of the latch pin 1076. In the positionillustrated in FIG. 45 the latch pin is inserted in the other hole, theentire pad assembly having being rotated through 90° to the positionillustrate in FIG. 45. In this position the latch pin is reinserted andthe hitch pin 1077 engages the latch pin to lock it in position. In thisposition the latch pin 1076 is disposed under the arm 1067 basicallyholding the pad in the position illustrated in FIG. 45 preventing anysignificant rotation in either direction. This is desired when thegrouser points are engaging the ground in order to provide a firm holdby the grouser end of the pad. It is also noted in this position thatthe end 1075 of the plate 1074 is about into engagement with the end ofthe stabilizer arm to inhibit rotation.

[0149] Reference is now made to FIGS. 48-51 for another embodiment ofthe present invention employing a readily reversible pad pack that canbe engaged with the weldment in either of alternate positions. Thereversal of the pad enables enhanced life of the overall padconstruction because after one surface has been worn down the pad can bereversed and the opposite surface can then be used as the groundengaging surface.

[0150] In the embodiment of FIGS. 48-51, the weldment is comprised of apair of laterally disposed plate members or flanges 1086 that aresupported from the stabilizer arm 1087. A pin 1088 pivotally supportsthe side plates 1086 from the stabilizer arm 1087. The laminatedresilient pad 1080 is constructed as a pad pack, illustrated in theexploded view of FIG. 50 as comprising a series of laminated layers 1081that are held together by appropriate means such as the securing members1082. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 50 there are six suchmembers that are employed, although fewer or greater numbers may beemployed. The laminated pad 1080 also has a centrally disposedthrough-hole 1083 for receiving the retaining bolt 1084.

[0151]FIG. 51 illustrates the construction of the pad pack 1080,including the securing members for holding the pad together. This mayinclude a center rod 1090. The laminated pad is drilled to snuglyreceive the rod 1090. The rod 1090 may be, for example, a thee-quarterinch diameter rod that is adapted to snugly or even force fit throughthe laminated pad assembly. A three-quarter inch washer 1091 is placedover the end of the rod against the end laminate layer. A metal sideplate may also be used between the washer and the end laminate layer.The laminate layers are preferably compressed to a proper width and aone inch outside diameter sleeve 1092 is slid over the end of the rodand tack-welded as indicated at 1093 in FIG. 51. This arrangement holdsthe laminate construction in an integral pad pack configuration. FIG. 50shows the angled slots 1095 in which the sleeve is adapted to mate. Itis noted that these slots are preferably angled, although they couldalso be disposed perpendicular to the bottom edge of the flange. Oncethe sleeves are placed in the slots, then the resilient pad pack ismaintained in position by inserting the retaining bolt 1084 through thehole 1083 in the pad as well as through the hole 1096 in each of theside plates 1086. FIG. 51 also shows in phantom outline a skirt 1097that may be used to cover the ends of the sleeves 1092. This may betack-welded as indicated at 1098.

[0152]FIG. 52 is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of an alternateembodiment of pad construction. This illustrates a fragment of thelaminate layers 1101 being held together by a steel pipe 1102. The steelpipe may have an outer diameter of three quarters of an inch. This pipemay be peened over in order to retain the sleeve 1103 and washer 1104.This arrangement is useable instead of providing welding.

[0153]FIGS. 53A and 53B illustrate stilt a further alternate arrangementillustrating a fragment of a pad at 1106 the use of a supporting rod1108. This may be a one inch outer diameter rod or pin that is force-fitinto an undersized hole through the resilient rubber pad. By providingan undersized hole and force-fitting, no further retainers are necessaryand the pin will remain in a position wherein it extends a slightdistance from either end of the laminate pad for engagement with theslots in the side plate.

[0154] Reference is now made to FIG. 54 which is a perspective view of afurther alternate embodiment of a pad construction. This padconstruction is similar to that described in FIG. 48 including sideplates 1110 and interconnecting plate 1112 with the turned lip 1113 ateither end. At one end the lip is turned up and at the other end it isturned down. The resilient rubber pad construction may be substantiallyidentical to that described in FIG. 50 employing end sleeves that areadapted to engage in lower slots of the side plates. This embodimentalso illustrates a pair of skirts 1114 that may be tack-welded at 1115.These skirts are used to protect the mounting slots from distortionduring the use of the pad. FIG. 54 also illustrates a retaining pin 1116that may be used in place of the retaining bolt 1084 illustrated in FIG.50. The retaining pin 1116 may a three quarter inch diameter rod that isforce-fit into an undersized hole in the pad. This pin may be pushed outwith a hammer and drift pin. The pin 1116 when removed enables thereversal of the resilient rubber pack. The retaining pin 1116 may alsobe in the form of a bar, plate or other elongated member, and may bealternatively secured by being molded into a solid pack so that it wouldthereby be an integral part of the pack.

[0155] In accordance with still a further alternate version of theinvention, and with reference to the embodiment of FIG. 54, the throughhole in the pad can actually be of larger diameter than the pin or othersupport bar, thereby simplifying the pad assembly construction, with thepin or bar being glued into place. Alternatively, the pin or bar couldbe supported loosely in the through hole or passage, but would beretained in place by means of the side skirts 1114, when the pack isinstalled between the side flanges or plates 1110. In this arrangementthe pad pack is preferably of laminated construction and is heldtogether, such as by the aforementioned techniques including gluing inorder to provide a self-supporting pad pack.

[0156] Reference is now made to a further embodiment of the presentinvention illustrated in FIGS. 54A-54D. This embodiment of the inventionis similar to that described in FIG. 48. The stabilizer pad constructionincludes a pair of laterally disposed side flanges or plates 1120 thatis supported, by means of rotating pin 1124, from the distal end of thestabilizer arm 1122. The lateral flanges or plate members 1120 aresubstantially the same as described in FIG. 50 including at their loweredge receiving slots 1126. The slots 1126 receive the end sleeves 1128at the ends of the support rods 1129 of the resilient pad pack. 1130.The laminate rubber pad 1130 also is provided with a through hole 1133that receives the retaining pin 1134. The retaining pin 1134, as in theembodiment of FIG. 50, is also received by the hole 1135 in each of thelateral plates 1120.

[0157] The laminate rubber pack 1130 is meant to engage the lateral sideplates 1120 in the same manner as described in connection with FIG. 50.The primary difference between the embodiment of FIG. 54 and that ofFIG. 48 is that the embodiment of FIG. 54D now includes a T-bar 1138that provides support between the cross-plate 1140 and the pad pack1130. The cross-plate 1140 extends between the lateral side plates 1120.It is noted that the opposite ends of the cross-plate 1140 are turneddown as indicated at 1141. This assists in retaining the T-bar 1138 inposition, as illustrated in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 54C. TheT-bar 1138 is generally free-floating between the pad and plate 1140,and provides some transfer of forces fro the pad to the weldment, andfrom there, to the arm of the machine.

[0158] The laminated pad 1130, as noted, has a gap 1144 between oppositeside laminate sections. In the preferred arrangement the securing rods1129 are force-fit with the laminate leaving the gap 1144 between thedifferent side sections. This gap allows for easy assembly and provideslooser tolerances for the compressed rubber strips or layers. This gapis sized to receive the base of the T-bar 1138, as illustrated in FIG.54B.

[0159] As illustrated in FIGS. 54B and 54C, the bottom of the T-bar 1138disposed above the rods 1129. Deflective forces against the bottom ofthe pad are transferred through the rods to the T-bar 1138 and thecross-plate 1140. This prevents the bending of the rods 1129.

[0160]FIGS. 54A and 54D also illustrate a latch arrangement includingthe locking pin 1147 that engages between the side walls 1120. Thelocking pin 1147 has an extending leg 1148 that is secured by means ofthe hitch pin 1150. The latch pin is shown in its storage position inFIG. 54A. It is also noted that the side plates 1120 also have anotherhole for receiving the locking pin 1148 so that when the pad is moved tothe grouser point engaging position, as in FIG. 49, the locking pin 1148can retain the pad in that position. Refer to the discussionhereinbefore regarding the use of the pin 1076 in the version of FIG.45. In the embodiment of FIG. 54A the hitch pin 1150 is used in the samelocation to retain the locking pin in place, holding the grouser pointsin a firm position in ground engagement.

[0161] Reference is now made to FIGS. 55-57 for another version of alatch arrangement in accordance with the present invention. Thisparticular embodiment of the pad construction includes a weldment 1160that supports three pad assemblies 1162. The metal weldment 1160 isprovided on the opposite side with grouser points 1163. The weldment1160 is supported for rotation from the stabilizer arm 1165 by means ofthe support pin 1168. In FIG. 55 the stabilizer pad construction isshown in a position in which the grouser points are facing downwardly.

[0162] FIGS. 55-57 also show the latch arrangement that is employed withthis structure. This includes the pivotal latch 1170 which is shown insolid outline in FIGS. 55 and 56 as having its leg 1171 in a positionover the edge of the weldment 1160.

[0163] In this position the weldment and the whole pad assembly areprevented from rotation to the resilient pad side. This preventsself-flipping from the grouser point side to the resilient pad side ofthe assembly. FIG. 56 also shows, in phantom outline, the latch 1170moved to its unlocked position enabling the pad assembly to be rotatedfrom one side to the other.

[0164] The latch arrangement depicted in FIGS. 55-57 also includes, inaddition to the latch member 1170, support plates 1174 and elongatedbolts 1176. The bolts 1176 are used to clamp the plates 1174 about thestabilizer arm 1165. The latch 1170 is adapted to rotate about one ofthe bolts 1176 between the two opposite positions illustrated in FIG. 56including a latching position and an unlatched position.

[0165]FIG. 57 illustrates a bushing 1180 that provides the supportbetween the bolt shaft and the latch 1170. This bushing limits thesqueezing of the elastomeric material of the latch 1170 so as to provideproper friction against any inadvertent rotation. The latch 1170 alsoincludes a stop pin 1182. The pin 1182 extends from the polyethylenelatch 1170. In the position shown in solid outline in FIG. 56, the stoppin 1182 is butted up against the end of the plate 1174. This limits theposition of the latch in the counter clock-wise direction of rotation.In the position shown in FIG. 56 in phantom, the stop pin also limitsthe clock-wise rotation of the latch by bearing against the end of theplate 1174.

[0166] The bushing 1180 is preferably press fit into the elastomericmaterial of the latch 1170. The sleeve of the bushing is slightly longerthan the hole depth in the latch so as to slightly stick out therefrom.As the bushing is clamped, the friction between the bushing and latchprovides some resistance to rotation, so that the latch will notinadvertently rotate from one position to the other.

[0167] In the embodiment of FIG. 55 it is noted that the latch issecured to the arm 1165. In another embodiment of the invention thelatch may be secured to the pad itself, and be positioned to engage anddisengage with the arm to prevent rotation.

[0168] Having thus described several aspects of at least one embodimentof this invention, it is to be appreciated various alterations,modifications, and improvements will readily occur to those skilled inthe art. Such alterations, modifications, and improvements are intendedto be part of this disclosure, and are intended to be within the scopeof the invention. Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawingsare by way of example only.

What is claimed is:
 1. A stabilizer for a heavy equipment machinecomprising: a pair of resilient pad assemblies each having opposedsurfaces either of which can be positioned as a ground engaging surface;a support pin that extends in opposed directions from a stabilizer armof the machine; each of said resilient pad assemblies having arespective passage for receiving the support pin for enabling rotationalsupport of the resilient pad assemblies from the support pin; thesupport of the resilient pad assemblies enabling the positioning ofeither of the opposed surfaces as the ground engaging surface.
 2. Astabilizer as set forth in claim 1 wherein said pad assemblies each areconstructed of a plurality of separate pad layers.
 3. A stabilizer asset forth in claim 1 wherein each pad assembly comprises a plurality ofresilient pad layers and at least one interconnecting member forretaining the layers in a secured pack.
 4. A stabilizer as set forth inclaim 3 wherein the interconnecting member comprises a pair of sideplates and at least two interconnection securing members that areadapted to extend through the pad layers for holding the pad layerstogether.
 5. A stabilizer as set forth in claim 1 wherein a sleeve is insaid pad passage for engaging with the support pin.
 6. A stabilizer padassembly for use with a stabilizer arm, the stabilizer pad assemblycomprising: a pair of laterally spaced apart plate members, the pair ofplate members being pivotally attached to a stabilizer arm by a pinextending laterally between facing surfaces of respective plate members;at least one resilient pad formed with at least one passage extendingtransversely therethrough between opposite sides of said resilient pad,and having opposite work surfaces; said plate members having, adjacentone edge thereof, at least one receiving hole; and a retainer removeablyengageable with said plate member receiving hole and said pad passage,removable to permit said resilient pad to be moved between said oppositeworking surfaces and to be re-engagable so as to permit selectivepositioning of either of said opposite working surfaces for use as asurface for ground engagement.
 7. A stabilizer pad assembly as set forthin claim 6 wherein said pad is comprised of a plurality of resilient padlayers and a plurality of securing members that retain the layerstogether.
 8. A stabilizer pad assembly as set forth in claim 7 whereinthe securing members each have end caps that are received in acorresponding slot in the plate member edges.
 9. A stabilizer padassembly as set forth in claim 8 wherein each of the slots is angled.10. A stabilizer pad assembly as set forth in claim 8 wherein the slotsare disposed on opposite sides of the receiving hole, and the securingmembers are disposed on opposite sides of the passage in the padassembly.
 11. A stabilizer pad assembly as set forth in claim 6including a connecting plate between the plate members for supporttherebetween.
 12. A stabilizer pad assembly as set forth in claim 11wherein said connecting plate is disposed over but spaced from the padassembly.
 13. A stabilizer pad assembly as set forth in claim 12including a t-bar member between the pad assembly and the connectingplate.
 14. A stabilizer pad assembly as set forth in claim 13 whereinthe t-bar member extends into a slot between pad layers and transferssome force from the pad to the connecting plate.
 15. A latch device foruse with a stabilizer pad attached to a stabilizer arm of a vehicle andfor preventing self-flipping of the stabilizer pad relative to thestabilizer arm, said latch device comprising: a latch constructed andarranged to have a pivot that enables limited rotation between engagedand disengaged positions thereof; a support for the latch from eitherthe stabilizer arm or the stabilizer pad; said stabilizer pad having oneand other positions relating to opposed work surfaces; said latch beinginterengaged with one of said pad and arm to inhibits rotation of saidstabilizer pad when said stabilizer pad is in said one position so as toinhibit self-flipping thereof; said latch being manually operable todisengage said latch when moving said stabilizer pad to its otherposition.
 16. A latch device as set forth in claim 15 wherein said latchis attached to the stabilizer arm and the stabilizer pad includes aweldment that the latch engages with.
 17. A latch device as set forth inclaim 16 wherein the latch is constructed of an elastomeric material andhas opposite positions limited by a stop.
 18. A latch device as setforth in claim 17 wherein the stop engages the nd of the support tolimit the position of the latch.
 19. A latch device as set forth inclaim 15 wherein the support comprises a pair of support plates attachedby bolts to the stabilizer arm.
 20. A latch device as set forth in claim15 wherein said latch is supported from the stabilizer arm by a pivotmember.